Pauline Smyth Rodger & Bryan Johnston
22nd August 2019
Venue | Eilean Donan Castle, the Highlands
Photography | Krisp Camp Photography
“I popped the question to Bryan on 2nd January 2018. Trust me – I never thought I would do that! Then, Bryan proposed to me on 24th February 2019 at the top of Bennachie. We love walking, so there couldn’t have been a more perfect setting.
Our hearts are in the Highlands, so Eilean Donan Castle – steeped in romance and spectacular scenery – was the only option we considered. We wanted to show our Australian friends (one of whom was a witness) just how beautiful the area is.
There were just 12 at our wedding, including us. Having my two daughters there as bridesmaids was so special. They were instrumental in the wedding plans; in fact, I pretty much left it all to them (only stepping in occasionally). Safe to say, they did us proud.
Our celtic ceremony lead by Sonja Eck-Riel was touching. Bryan and I both had tears in our eyes. The handfasting that sealed the service meant a lot to us. We have the handmade ribbon as a keepsake now. We also included the quaich ritual and a ring warming to the tune Maids of Arrochar.
After toasting our future with pink bubbly, we headed to Kintail Lodge Hotel for some dinner and drinks. We all got up and jigged to some accordion music played by a lovely chap called Louden who worked at the hotel. It made our night.
The thing that surprised me most about getting married was that we were actually getting married! It was more significant than we anticipated. After being determinedly single for many years, I never thought I would meet a man like Bryan. I am truly blessed.
Cat from Krisp Camp Photography was so chilled and not pushy in the slightest. She captured the afternoon in a brilliant, non-orchestrated way. The photos really show things exactly how they were – full of happiness. Bryan and I are absolutely thrilled by the photography.”
Top tip: “If we could change one thing about our wee ‘big day’, it would be to stay longer to appreciate what happened. Time passed quickly, but thankfully the memories shall never fade. From our witness, John, giving a small speech (cue tears all round) to Bryan carrying me across the grass in the castle grounds, it genuinely was a day full of love, smiles and laughter.”
Bride’s dress and bridesmaids’ dresses Perfect Bridal Rooms
Dress alterations A. Alterations
Groomswear Tweedmaker
Rings Beaverbrooks
Celebrant Sonja Eckl-Riel of Heart and Soul Ceremonies
Flowers Loch Duich Plants and Flowers
Wedding meal, entertainment and accommodation Kintail Lodge Hotel
Transport Highland Vintage Car Hire
Hair and makeup Bee Bonnie Beauty
